Ep101: Transforming a Family Business Through Purpose and Accountability with Nubia Pérez

In this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik talks with Nubia Pérez, CEO and part-owner of Gretna Machine Shop, a Houston-based precision manufacturer serving the energy, aerospace, and defense industries.Nubia shares the remarkable story of how her family built Gretna from a single-garage operation in 1980 into a certified lean manufacturing company, and how she later transformed it through leadership, culture, and purpose.After her father’s passing in 2012, Nubia faced a decade of uncertainty before realizing that the company’s future depended on her stepping forward. She reveals how she rebuilt Gretna from within by creating accountability, redefining its culture, and leading with empathy and transparency.From embracing EOS to driving diversification from oil and gas to aerospace, Nubia explains what it takes to modernize a second-generation family business while honoring its legacy. She also shares her perspective on automation, AI, and making manufacturing “mindful” again.If you are interested in leadership, culture change, and the evolution of Texas manufacturing, this episode offers a powerful look at resilience, renewal, and what it means to lead with heart and purpose.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Gretna Machine Shop